Is Hazell close to naming Purdue's quarterback?

Purdue quarterbacks David Blough, 11, Austin Appleby and Danny Etling, 5, listen to head coach Darrell Hazell on the first day of practice Monday, August 4, 2014, at the Bimel Practice Complex(Photo: Mike Heinz/Journal & Courier)

How close is Darrell Hazell to naming his starting quarterback?

The second-year Purdue coach said he would announce Danny Etling, Austin Appleby or David Blough as the starter for the Aug. 30 opener against Western Michigan at the end of the first week of training camp.

The Boilermakers practice Friday – the first time in full pads – and have two workouts Saturday.

"We'll see where we are then," Hazell said, referring to Saturday's practices.

Sunday is media day, an opportunity for Hazell to share the news in a bigger setting. He didn't hold a formal press conference last year at media day, but he's available for questions. Look for a similar format Sunday.

Etling was the No. 1 quarterback Monday and Wednesday and Appleby took snaps with the first-team offense Tuesday and Thursday. Based on what we've seen the first four days, it would be a surprise if Blough is in the mix, not because of his talent level but because of the rotation.

Maybe Friday's practice will tell us more where things stand.

Hazell provided a diplomatic answer when asked if the quarterback situation wasn't as clear after the first four days of camp.

"All of those guys are doing a really nice job. Very pleased that we have three confident and capable guys that can be underneath center," he said.

Coming out of spring practice, Etling was considered the No. 1 and probably remains there today. While the sophomore hasn't been sharp, Appleby and Blough haven't done enough to unseat Etling heading into Friday's practice. Granted, the offensive line has protection issues, adding to some of the inconsistency from the quarterbacks.

Hazell will likely base a majority of his decision on which quarterback can avoid turnovers.

Hazell usually doesn't stray from his timetable. Last year, Hazell said before camp he would name a starter two weeks later. He did, selecting Rob Henry.

But if Hazell isn't comfortable naming the starter or needs to see more, we'll wait. There's also no rush since the opener is three weeks away, but this is a position you wanted settled sooner rather than later.

"If it's not declared by next week, we have the jersey scrimmage at the end of the week or it could be declared Monday," Hazell said.